Creamy Butternut & Cheddar Samp Bake

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked samp (pre-soaked or quick-cook)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic, minced
• 2 cups roasted butternut cubes
• 1 cup full-cream local milk
• ½ cup fresh cream
• 1 tsp thyme leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ½ cups grated mature white cheddar (locally sourced)
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 180°C.
2. In a large pan, melt butter and sauté onions until soft and golden. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in roasted butternut and cooked samp. Mix gently to combine.
4. Pour in the milk and cream. Add thyme, seasoning, and half the cheese. Stir until well combined.
5. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheese, paprika, and breadcrumbs if using.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbling and golden.
7. Serve warm as a main or side dish – perfect for chilly nights.